Isaiah 9:2
Verse
Context
Unto Us a Child Is Born
1Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those in distress. In the past He humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future He will honor the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations: 2The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death, a light has dawned. 3You have enlarged the nation and increased its joy. The people rejoice before You as they rejoice at harvest time, as men rejoice in dividing the plunder.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
The range of vision is first widened in Isa 9:2.: "The people that walk about in darkness see a great light; they who dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them a light shines." The range of vision is here extended; not to the Gentiles, however, but to all Israel. Salvation would not break forth till it had become utterly dark along the horizon of Israel, according to the description in Isa 5:30, i.e., till the land of Jehovah had become a land of the shadow of death on account of the apostasy of its inhabitants from Jehovah (zalmâveth is modified, after the manner of a composite noun, from zalmūth, according to the form kadrūth, and is derived from צלם, Aeth. salema, Arab. zalima, to be dark). (Note: The shadow or shade, zēl, Arab. zill (radically related to tall = טל, dew), derived its name ab obtegendo, and according to the idea attached to it as the opposite of heat or of light, was used as a figure of a beneficent shelter (Isa 16:3), or of what was dark and horrible (cf., Targ. tallâni, a night-demon). The verb zâlam, in the sense of the Arabic zalima, bears the same relation to zâlal as bâham to bâhâh (Gen. p. 93), ‛âram, to be naked, to ‛ârâh (Jeshurun, p. 159). The noun zelem, however, is either formed from this zâlam, or else directly from zēl, with the substantive termination em.) The apostate mass of the nation is to be regarded as already swept away; for if death has cast its shadow over the land, it must be utterly desolate. In this state of things the remnant left in the land beholds a great light, which breaks through the sky that has been hitherto covered with blackness. The people, who turned their eyes upwards to no purpose, because they did so with cursing (Isa 8:21), are now no more. It is the remnant of Israel which sees this light of spiritual and material redemption arise above its head. In what this light would consist the prophet states afterwards, when describing first the blessings and then the star of the new time.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
the people--the whole nation, Judah and Israel. shadow of death--the darkest misery of captivity.
John Gill Bible Commentary
The people that walked in darkness,.... Meaning not the inhabitants of Judah and Jerusalem, in the times of Hezekiah, when Sennacherib besieged them, as Jarchi and Kimchi interpret it; and much less the people of Israel in Egypt, as the Targum paraphrases it; but the inhabitants of Galilee in the times of Christ; see Mat 4:16, Joh 1:48 and is a true character of all the people of God before conversion, who are in a state of darkness, under the power of sin, shut up in unbelief; are in gross ignorance of themselves, and their condition; of sin, and the danger they are exposed to by it; of divine and spiritual things; of the grace of God; of the way of peace, life, and salvation by Christ; and of the work of the blessed Spirit; and of the truths of the Gospel; they are in the dark, and can see no objects in a spiritual sense; not to read the word, so as to understand it; or to work that which is good; and they "walk" on in darkness, not knowing where they are, and whither they are going; and yet of these it is said, they have seen a great light; Christ himself, who conversed among the Galilaeans, preached unto them, and caused the light of his glorious Gospel to shine into many of their hearts; by which their darkness was removed, so that they not only saw Christ, this great light, with their bodily eyes, but with the eyes of their understanding; who may be called the "light", because he is the author and giver of all light, even of nature, grace, and glory; and a "great" one, because he is the sun, the greatest light, the sun of righteousness, the light of the world, both of Jews and Gentiles; he is the true light, in distinction from all typical ones, and in opposition to all false ones, and who in his person is God over all. They that dwell in the land of the shadow of death; as Galilee might be called, because it was a poor, miserable, and uncomfortable place, from whence no good came; and this character fitly describes God's people in a state of nature and unregeneracy, who are dead in Adam, dead in law, and dead in trespasses and sins, dead as to the spiritual use of the powers and faculties of their souls; they have no spiritual life in them, nor any spiritual sense, feeling, or motion; and they "dwell", continue, and abide in this state, till grace brings them out of it; see Joh 12:46, upon them hath the light shined: Christ in human nature, through the ministration of his Gospel, by his spirit, so as to enlighten them who walk in darkness, and to quicken them who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death, and to comfort them in their desolate estate; and this light not only shone upon them in the external ministration of the word, as it did "upon" the inhabitants in general, but it shone "into" the hearts of many of them in particular, so that in this light they saw light.
Isaiah 9:2
Unto Us a Child Is Born
1Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those in distress. In the past He humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future He will honor the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations: 2The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death, a light has dawned. 3You have enlarged the nation and increased its joy. The people rejoice before You as they rejoice at harvest time, as men rejoice in dividing the plunder.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Freedom From Bondage Romans 8 - Part 1
By Leonard Ravenhill12K45:32FreedomISA 9:2MAT 6:33JHN 14:6ROM 7:24ROM 8:15In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a garbage collector who had been rescued from a troubled life. The preacher describes a powerful moment during a church service where a man with large hands raised his hand and passionately sang about being set free from sin. The preacher emphasizes the importance of spreading the name of Jesus to those who have never heard it, highlighting the billions of people who still haven't been exposed to the gospel. He then references Romans 8:1, emphasizing the freedom from condemnation that believers have in Christ. The sermon concludes with a reminder that holiness should not be feared but embraced, and that the apostle Paul's theology extends beyond Romans 7 to Romans 8.
His Light Shines
By Basilea Schlink2.2K01:01PSA 27:1PSA 30:5ISA 9:2JHN 8:12JHN 16:222CO 4:6This sermon focuses on the darkness that may surround us during Christmas, whether in the world situation or in our personal relationships and hearts. It highlights the prophecy of Isaiah about the coming of Christ as a great light to those in darkness, emphasizing the hope and joy that Jesus brings. The message encourages looking to Jesus, the radiant sun, who draws us into His kingdom of light, where His light shines brightly and His joy surpasses all sorrows.
The Three Hours' Darkness
By C.H. Spurgeon2.0K50:23PSA 30:5PSA 119:105ISA 9:2MAT 27:45JHN 8:12JHN 12:461JN 1:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of Jesus speaking to bring light to dark hearts. He highlights the significance of Jesus' cry of abandonment on the cross, stating that it should be the end of our grief and bring heavenly mourning to our minds. Despite the speaker's physical pain, he believes that God can still bless his feeble words and make the darkness meaningful to us. The sermon concludes by discussing the sympathy of nature with Jesus, stating that all lights are dim without him and that the darkness surrounding his death holds deep meaning and instruction for believers.
What Child Is This? the Benedictus
By J. Glyn Owen1.9K21:49BenedictusGEN 18:10PSA 23:6PSA 107:10ISA 9:2ISA 60:2LUK 1:67In this sermon, the speaker discusses the prevailing conditions of desolation and darkness in the world during the time of Zechariah. He emphasizes the need for salvation from enemies and the importance of serving God without fear. The speaker also highlights the concept of divine visitation, where God visits his people both in grace and judgment. The sermon references biblical passages such as Exodus 20:5 and Psalm 89:32 to support these ideas. Additionally, the speaker mentions the metaphor of God visiting his people to save them and the unusual imagery used by Zechariah to describe God's salvation through the conception and birth of Jesus.
(The Word for Today) Isaiah 9:2 - Part 1
By Chuck Smith1.4K25:57ExpositionalISA 9:2ISA 9:6MAT 1:23MAT 6:33REV 21:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the parallels between the current state of society and the biblical story of Judah's idolatry and turning away from God. He condemns the prevalent evils in society, such as abortion, pornography, and humanistic philosophy. The preacher longs for the establishment of God's kingdom on earth and expresses concern for the corrupting influence of music, movies, and false values on children. The sermon concludes with a prayer for God's protection and a reference to the prophecy of a child being born who will bring light and salvation to the world.
Beggarly
By Bakht Singh1.3K1:19:41Beggarly1SA 2:7PSA 34:18PSA 55:22ISA 9:2ISA 53:5MAT 5:4MAT 11:28In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the theme of the beggar as mentioned in 1st Samuel chapter 2 verse 7 and 8. The preacher emphasizes that God sees us as beggars, helpless and in need of His grace. He describes the beggar as someone living in a dirty and filthy place, symbolizing our sinful state. However, the preacher also highlights God's love and mercy, as He lifts up the beggar from the dust and sets them on thrones of glory. The sermon encourages listeners to recognize their need for God's saving grace and to rely on His unchanging love.
The Darkness-Despeller in Darkness
By Roger Ellsworth1.2K28:20ISA 9:2MAT 6:33MAT 27:45MRK 10:46JHN 1:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the astonishing nature of the darkness that fell upon Golgotha when Jesus was crucified. He highlights the Lord Jesus as the dispeller of darkness and urges the audience to love Him with a burning love. The speaker discusses the unprecedented darkness that shrouded Golgotha on the day of crucifixion and emphasizes the fitting nature of this darkness. He encourages believers to regain a sense of awe and wonder over what Jesus did on Calvary's Cross. The sermon is based on Matthew 27:45-46 and aims to warm the hearts of the audience towards the Lord Jesus Christ and His redeeming work.
The Five Pillars of the Gospel
By Ian Paisley1.1K37:45ISA 9:2MAT 6:33JHN 3:16ROM 3:23EPH 1:7HEB 6:191JN 2:12In this sermon, the preacher discusses the five great cardinalities of the Gospel: the book, the birth, the blight, the blood, and the basis. The book refers to the Bible, which is seen as the anchor of the soul and the source of comfort and protection. The birth represents being born into God's family and becoming a member of the family of God. The blight refers to personal sins and the darkness they bring, while the blood symbolizes the forgiveness of sins through Jesus Christ. The basis for his namesake emphasizes the importance of the Gospel in bringing hope and light to a dark and sinful world.
Highlights From Isaiah 9:-01 From Darkness to Light
By James K. Boswell1.0K42:49GEN 12:2ISA 9:2ISA 9:6MAT 1:1MAT 6:33LUK 1:32In this sermon, the preacher describes a scene where a family attends a church service and the father carries his young son on his shoulder. The preacher emphasizes the symbolism of the father's heart as a place of affection and his shoulders as a place of strength. The preacher encourages the congregation to place their hearts and trust in God, who is described as wonderful in grace, gentleness, glory, and greatness. The preacher also highlights the intimacy and closeness between the father and son, relating it to the relationship between believers and God. The sermon concludes with an invitation to accept Jesus into one's life and to anticipate sharing in his glory.
Audio Sermon: Biblical Nonresistance
By Dean Taylor9061:37:18PSA 23:4PSA 46:10ISA 9:2ISA 9:6MAT 5:102TI 3:121PE 4:12REV 2:10This sermon emphasizes the light of God shining in the darkness, bringing joy and breaking the burdens of oppression. It highlights the prophecy of a child being born, who will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. The message also delves into identifying the true Church in the last days through distinct marks, focusing on perseverance and faith amidst chaos and persecution.
Matthew 1-4
By Chuck Smith89951:13GEN 22:18ISA 9:2MAT 4:1MAT 4:17This sermon delves into the beginning of Matthew's Gospel, highlighting the 400 silent years between Malachi and Matthew, the historical context of the Persian, Grecian, and Roman Empires, the significance of Jesus' lineage from Abraham and David, the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in Jesus' birth, the temptations faced by Jesus in the wilderness, and the calling of the disciples to follow Him.
Unreached Peoples: The Nuristani People of Pakistan
By Paul Hattaway55300:00ISA 9:2MAT 5:14JHN 8:122CO 4:6EPH 5:8This sermon sheds light on the Nuristani settlements in Pakistan, originally animists who converted to Islam after being influenced by neighboring Muslims. Despite once inviting Christians to share about Jesus, they are now suspicious and hostile towards Christianity. The Nuristani live in spiritual darkness, isolated in their traditions and customs, with limited rights for women and a strict, closed-off society. The sermon emphasizes the need for God to open their hearts to His light and truth, transforming their lives and community.
When the Lord Passes By
By Carter Conlon24745:08Christian LifeGEN 1:3PSA 119:105ISA 9:2EZK 16:21MAT 6:33JHN 1:52CO 4:6In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of selfishness and the importance of being part of the giving crowd rather than the taking crowd. He emphasizes the need to recognize our own mistakes and come back to God. The speaker uses the story of the prodigal son from Luke 15 to illustrate this point. The prodigal son realizes his selfishness and decides to return to his father's house where he knows he will be provided for. The speaker encourages the audience, especially young people, to listen and reflect on their own actions and choices. He reminds them of the power of God's voice in bringing light into darkness and urges them to remember the moment when they first opened their hearts to God.
The Light of the World
By Mariano Di Gangi2732:59Following JesusJesusLight Of The WorldPSA 119:105ISA 9:2MAT 5:14JHN 3:19JHN 8:12EPH 5:8COL 1:131TI 6:161JN 1:5REV 21:23Mariano Di Gangi emphasizes that Jesus is the light of the world, contrasting the darkness of sin and ignorance with the illuminating truth and guidance that comes from following Him. He recounts the story of the woman caught in adultery to illustrate Jesus' mercy and the call to leave a life of sin. Di Gangi explains that true faith involves a commitment to follow Jesus, which leads to spiritual enlightenment and moral clarity. He warns against the temptation to prefer darkness over light, highlighting the consequences of ignoring Christ's guidance. Ultimately, he encourages believers to embrace the light of life that Jesus offers, leading to freedom from sin and a relationship with God.
He Who Walks Toward the Sun Never Travels in Shadows
By Russell DeLong0PSA 27:1PSA 107:10ISA 9:2JHN 1:1REV 21:23Russell DeLong preaches about the significance of light in various forms - physical, natural, intellectual, moral, and spiritual - as a symbol of truth, goodness, and righteousness. Jesus is portrayed as the ultimate Light, the Sun of Righteousness, who dispels darkness and offers salvation. The sermon delves into the concept of spiritual darkness being connected with sin, emphasizing the need to accept Jesus, the Light of the world, to avoid eternal darkness and have everlasting life.
Our First Priority
By Andrew Murray0PSA 50:18ISA 9:2MRK 14:10LUK 11:48ACT 8:1ROM 1:32ROM 5:8Pastor Ray Stedman delves into the concept of 'suneudokeo,' which means to give hearty approval or consent to something, as seen in various Bible verses where individuals approve of sinful deeds. The preacher highlights the dire moral state of humanity, emphasizing the rebellion against God's ordinances and the fellowship of evil among wrongdoers. He points out that the ultimate example of giving hearty approval is seen in the betrayal of Jesus by Judas Iscariot and the psalmist's accusation of those who associate with wrongdoers. The sermon underscores the deepening darkness of society when individuals celebrate evil, leading to disaster and degeneracy, ultimately necessitating the intervention of the gospel of Jesus Christ for redemption.
Deliverance From the Power of Darkness
By J.C. Philpot0ISA 9:2ISA 60:2ZEC 3:1MAT 10:39MAT 16:26LUK 22:53JHN 1:5EPH 5:11EPH 6:12COL 1:12J.C. Philpot preaches about the importance of being delivered from the power of darkness and translated into the kingdom of God's dear Son. He emphasizes the need for true religion to be all-encompassing, warning about the irreparable loss of the soul. Philpot delves into the meanings of darkness as ignorance, sin, Satan's influence, and eternal misery, highlighting the necessity of God's deliverance. He explains the process of being made fit for the inheritance of the saints in light through washing, justification, and sanctification. Philpot concludes by urging gratitude and thanksgiving to the Father for His merciful acts of grace and the transformation from darkness to light.
On Hope
By Thomas Reade0ISA 9:21CO 2:14EPH 1:18HEB 6:191JN 3:3Thomas Reade preaches about the importance of having a true and living hope in Jesus Christ, emphasizing the need for believers to be filled with the Holy Spirit for spiritual enlightenment and understanding of God's Word. He warns against seeking knowledge from human sources rather than from the Bible, which is the grand depository of essential truths for eternal salvation. Reade highlights that the Christian hope is a holy principle that purifies the soul and leads to a longing for Christ's presence and a desire to be free from sin, ultimately pointing to the hope of glory as a glorious and blessed hope.
Conquering the Darkness
By David Wilkerson0Light vs. DarknessThe Power of the Holy SpiritPSA 55:22ISA 9:2MAT 11:28JHN 1:5ROM 15:132CO 1:3PHP 4:61PE 5:71JN 4:4REV 9:3David Wilkerson emphasizes that light is the only force that can conquer darkness, as illustrated in Isaiah and John. He explains that light symbolizes understanding and that the Holy Spirit empowers believers to overcome the challenges posed by darkness and fear. Wilkerson encourages Christians to cast their burdens onto the Holy Spirit, who is present to guide and comfort them through difficult times. He highlights that true testimony comes from those who embody joy and trust in God, even amidst overwhelming problems. Ultimately, the presence of the Holy Spirit in believers' lives serves as a beacon of hope to a world in darkness.
Sketches of Jewish Social Life - Part 4
By Alfred Edersheim0ISA 9:2ISA 21:11JER 25:30JHN 7:46ROM 11:2HEB 3:1Alfred Edersheim delves into the intricate details of Jewish practices and rituals, shedding light on the significance of various customs observed in the Temple, such as the timing of prayers, the layout of the Temple, and the roles of priests and Levites. He explores the meticulous regulations governing prayer times, the structure of the Temple, the duties of the priests, and the symbolic meanings behind certain practices. Edersheim also discusses the divisions of the night watches, the functions of different chambers within the Temple, and the importance of specific rituals in Jewish worship.
A Burden of Light
By Allan Halton0PSA 27:1ISA 9:2MAT 5:14JHN 1:52CO 4:6Allan Halton addresses the tragic murder of four young people, emphasizing the darkness that engulfs the younger generation and the need for Christians to be the light in the world. He questions the purpose of life and the responsibility of believers to shine God's light in the midst of darkness, calling for a revival of true faith and a cry for God's mercy. Halton challenges individuals to examine if Jesus is truly the light of their lives and urges them to seek the righteousness and salvation found in Christ.
Darkness Cannot Stop the Light!
By David Wilkerson0Light in DarknessHope in DespairISA 9:2ISA 42:16MAT 5:14JHN 1:5David Wilkerson emphasizes that despite the increasing darkness and moral decline in society, the light of the gospel will always prevail. He reflects on his early warnings about the rise of drugs and immorality, which many dismissed, yet have now become a reality. Wilkerson encourages believers not to be intimidated by the darkness, reminding them that God's light will shine even brighter in times of despair. He cites Isaiah's prophecies to affirm that God will lead and guide His people through the darkness. Ultimately, he calls for a focus on God's light rather than the surrounding darkness.
Walk in Light
By C.H. Spurgeon0Faith and HopeLight of ChristPSA 27:1ISA 9:2MAT 5:14JHN 8:12JHN 12:46ROM 13:122CO 4:6EPH 5:8PHP 2:151JN 1:5C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that Jesus is the light of the world, coming to dispel the darkness that envelops humanity. He encourages believers to trust in Jesus, assuring them that faith leads to liberation from despair and ignorance, allowing them to bask in the eternal light of hope and joy. Spurgeon urges listeners to shake off their depression and not remain in darkness, as Jesus offers the privilege of living in broad daylight. He reminds us that just as the sun rises to scatter light, Jesus' coming is not in vain, and believers can rejoice in His presence. Ultimately, Spurgeon calls for a response of faith to fully embrace the light that Jesus provides.
Light
By Henry Law0GEN 1:3PSA 119:105ISA 9:2MAT 5:14JHN 1:9JHN 3:19JHN 8:122CO 4:6EPH 5:81PE 2:9Henry Law preaches on the profound moment when God spoke, 'Let there be light: and there was light,' bringing forth the grandest gift of creation. From the unarranged void, God meticulously crafts a world of beauty and order, teaching us the wisdom and necessity of patient diligence. Light, the first wonder to emerge, symbolizes Christ, the true light that reveals God's glory and leads us out of darkness into salvation. Just as light is pure, bright, lovely, free, and all-revealing, so is Christ in His holiness, glory, beauty, accessibility, and ability to expose sin and offer salvation.
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
The range of vision is first widened in Isa 9:2.: "The people that walk about in darkness see a great light; they who dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them a light shines." The range of vision is here extended; not to the Gentiles, however, but to all Israel. Salvation would not break forth till it had become utterly dark along the horizon of Israel, according to the description in Isa 5:30, i.e., till the land of Jehovah had become a land of the shadow of death on account of the apostasy of its inhabitants from Jehovah (zalmâveth is modified, after the manner of a composite noun, from zalmūth, according to the form kadrūth, and is derived from צלם, Aeth. salema, Arab. zalima, to be dark). (Note: The shadow or shade, zēl, Arab. zill (radically related to tall = טל, dew), derived its name ab obtegendo, and according to the idea attached to it as the opposite of heat or of light, was used as a figure of a beneficent shelter (Isa 16:3), or of what was dark and horrible (cf., Targ. tallâni, a night-demon). The verb zâlam, in the sense of the Arabic zalima, bears the same relation to zâlal as bâham to bâhâh (Gen. p. 93), ‛âram, to be naked, to ‛ârâh (Jeshurun, p. 159). The noun zelem, however, is either formed from this zâlam, or else directly from zēl, with the substantive termination em.) The apostate mass of the nation is to be regarded as already swept away; for if death has cast its shadow over the land, it must be utterly desolate. In this state of things the remnant left in the land beholds a great light, which breaks through the sky that has been hitherto covered with blackness. The people, who turned their eyes upwards to no purpose, because they did so with cursing (Isa 8:21), are now no more. It is the remnant of Israel which sees this light of spiritual and material redemption arise above its head. In what this light would consist the prophet states afterwards, when describing first the blessings and then the star of the new time.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
the people--the whole nation, Judah and Israel. shadow of death--the darkest misery of captivity.
John Gill Bible Commentary
The people that walked in darkness,.... Meaning not the inhabitants of Judah and Jerusalem, in the times of Hezekiah, when Sennacherib besieged them, as Jarchi and Kimchi interpret it; and much less the people of Israel in Egypt, as the Targum paraphrases it; but the inhabitants of Galilee in the times of Christ; see Mat 4:16, Joh 1:48 and is a true character of all the people of God before conversion, who are in a state of darkness, under the power of sin, shut up in unbelief; are in gross ignorance of themselves, and their condition; of sin, and the danger they are exposed to by it; of divine and spiritual things; of the grace of God; of the way of peace, life, and salvation by Christ; and of the work of the blessed Spirit; and of the truths of the Gospel; they are in the dark, and can see no objects in a spiritual sense; not to read the word, so as to understand it; or to work that which is good; and they "walk" on in darkness, not knowing where they are, and whither they are going; and yet of these it is said, they have seen a great light; Christ himself, who conversed among the Galilaeans, preached unto them, and caused the light of his glorious Gospel to shine into many of their hearts; by which their darkness was removed, so that they not only saw Christ, this great light, with their bodily eyes, but with the eyes of their understanding; who may be called the "light", because he is the author and giver of all light, even of nature, grace, and glory; and a "great" one, because he is the sun, the greatest light, the sun of righteousness, the light of the world, both of Jews and Gentiles; he is the true light, in distinction from all typical ones, and in opposition to all false ones, and who in his person is God over all. They that dwell in the land of the shadow of death; as Galilee might be called, because it was a poor, miserable, and uncomfortable place, from whence no good came; and this character fitly describes God's people in a state of nature and unregeneracy, who are dead in Adam, dead in law, and dead in trespasses and sins, dead as to the spiritual use of the powers and faculties of their souls; they have no spiritual life in them, nor any spiritual sense, feeling, or motion; and they "dwell", continue, and abide in this state, till grace brings them out of it; see Joh 12:46, upon them hath the light shined: Christ in human nature, through the ministration of his Gospel, by his spirit, so as to enlighten them who walk in darkness, and to quicken them who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death, and to comfort them in their desolate estate; and this light not only shone upon them in the external ministration of the word, as it did "upon" the inhabitants in general, but it shone "into" the hearts of many of them in particular, so that in this light they saw light.